Charging PHEV with ZAPPY

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radar2018
Posts: 88
Joined: Sun Jun 24, 2018 5:26 pm

Post by radar2018 »

I was wondering if anyone with a NIRO PHEV were using a Zappy charger together with Solar panels, and if so how reliable is it.
I am going to get a charger supplied with the car and it was a thought that I might be better off with a Zappy to fully utilize the solar.
For all I know it may not be possible due to fluctuation of power, but I might as well find out now.
KIA NIRO PHEV OCT 2018 Gravity Blue

Topicalcat
Posts: 49
Joined: Sat Dec 02, 2017 12:43 pm

Post by Topicalcat »

I raised this on another thread. Too many threads here with overlap of content. Like you I am investigating this option, In winter useless but at this time of year this option seems quite sensible if you are at home in the day to take advantage and it costs no more than a conventional charger.
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radar2018
Posts: 88
Joined: Sun Jun 24, 2018 5:26 pm

Post by radar2018 »

I realize this is only viable in summer months, what I am trying to find out if the PHEV can cope with fluctuations in power, looking at the graphs
I get up to 3.8kw regularly between 10 am and 2 pm, but unfortunatley there are also times when it drops below 1.2kw, what I need to know is will the Zappy draw the shortfall from the grid to continue charging, will NIRO allow the Zappy to continue charging, if it stops completely can it restart.

There appears to be no problems
with EV's
KIA NIRO PHEV OCT 2018 Gravity Blue
dejayem
Posts: 4
Joined: Sat May 12, 2018 4:35 pm
Location: Reading

Post by dejayem »

I want to do the same as you. My Niro plug-in is due to arrive in October and I plan to get a zappi. You can set the zappi to use all the solar it can and top up from the grid or just use solar. It's the second case that you are worried about and I see what you mean. I have wondered the same but not been able to get a reliable answer. I will still get the zappi either way because it's got to work in the fill in mode, it can charge to a schedule so could take advantage of off peak deals and I need a charge point anyway.
radar2018
Posts: 88
Joined: Sun Jun 24, 2018 5:26 pm

Post by radar2018 »

As a standard charger would use solar when available and top up from the grid at 3.3kw, unless I can find out if the Niro will accept lower power rating without complaining, I do not think it worth taking a chance with the extra cost involved.

I did ask the Zappi supplier and got a reply which was not as clear as I require, in fact I was not convinced, that is why I am trying to find someone who has been successful in using one.

I have till September to find out.
KIA NIRO PHEV OCT 2018 Gravity Blue
dejayem
Posts: 4
Joined: Sat May 12, 2018 4:35 pm
Location: Reading

Post by dejayem »

The charge station should be able to communicate with the the phev to sort this out. This link is a good guide https://www.google.fr/url?sa=t&source=w ... a9I0j8ZYEp

However it would be good to hear from someone who has actually tried it!
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